Chorionic Villus Sampling

For finding out whether your baby is having any chromosomal disorders like down syndrome or any other genetic problems Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is performed. 

Chorionic Villus Sampling is a pregnancy test where a sample of chorionic villi is obtained from the placenta for testing. The sample can also be obtained from the cervix or the abdominal wall. During the course of pregnancy, the placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to the developing baby and eliminates waste products from the baby’s blood. The chorionic villi are small projections of placental tissue that share the baby’s genetic formation. 

Chronic Villus Sampling Indication:

Listed below are symptoms for which you would be recommended to have a chronic villus sampling test:

• If the mother’s age is 35 years or more.
• Any abnormality found during Non-invasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS).
• Previous child with any chromosomal condition
• Having a family history of a specific genetic problem or any of you or your partner are carriers of any genetic condition.

Pre Test Procedure

For chronic VIlus Sampling, your doctor will ask you to have a full bladder for the examination. Also, you would be asked to drink a sufficient amount of water for proper analysis. Along with this, you are asked to sign a consent form before the clinical examination begins.

During the Choronoic VIllus Sampling Test

Initially, your doctor will use an ultrasound to check your baby’s prenatal age and the location of the placenta. Following that you are asked to lie on your back on the table with your abdomen uncovered. After that, a gel will be applied to your abdomen and a small device called an ultrasound transducer will show your baby’s position on the screen. After that, your doctor will use the ultrasound image as a guide and obtain tissue samples from the placenta. Tissue samples can be obtained either from the cervix (transcervical)  or the abdominal wall (transabdominal). 

Post Test Procedure

You may undergo a bit of vaginal bleeding right after the procedure which is normal. Further, you can resume your normal activities right after the procedure but do avoid strenuous activities for a day.  Simultaneously, the tissue sample will be examined in the lab. Results may take a few days depending on the complexities of the lab examination. 

Results:

Most probably every woman who has a CVS test will have a normal result. This means that there are no abnormalities found in the baby. If the result is “positive”, it means that your baby is suffering from any one of the conditions which are mentioned in the test.